A "DO NOT DO" list for Everyday Happiness

Do Not Do List

Are you a “to do” list person? I am. There’s something satisfying about writing things down and checking them off when I’ve done them. It feels productive. Accomplished.

But over time, I’ve realized that some of my happiest days don’t come from what I do.  Those days come from what I choose not to do.

Read on to find my “Do-Not-Do” list. When I stick to it, I feel lighter almost instantly. It shifts me into what I call, everyday happiness. See if it does the same for you.

1. Do not over analyze everything.

Oh, this one gets me. If someone doesn’t respond the way I expected, or my name isn’t on an invitation, my mind can take off running. Did I say something wrong? Did I forget something important? Before long, I’ve created an entire internal story, that makes me feel terrible. Now I try to do a quick, honest check of myself. If nothing obvious comes to mind that I’ve done wrong, I practice letting it go. Most of the time, there’s nothing there. And even if there is, overthinking won’t fix it. Letting go restores happiness.

2. Do not get touchy about what others say or do.

We’ve all said things that came out wrong. So when someone says something that lands funny, I try to give them the benefit of the doubt. Not every comment is a criticism. Not every oversight is intentional. If someone truly has a problem with me, it will become clear and I’ll deal with it then. Until that happens, why carry the heavy weight?

3. Do not think you’re better than anyone else OR think they’re better than you.

Sometimes comparing comes easy. Have you ever slipped into feeling “less than,” OR being honest, occasionally "better than?” But at the end of the day, we’re all just people doing our best with what we’ve been given. We all have struggles no one sees. Remembering that levels everything out and softens my heart.

4. Do not overshare anything about anyone.

This one takes real self-control. It’s tempting to explain someone else’s situation or struggles when it would “clear things up.” But if it’s not my story, it’s not mine to tell. Holding that boundary protects others and it protects my own integrity. I always feel better when I’ve used self control to skip gossip or spreading anything about anyone.

5. Do not allow jealous feelings to take root.

Jealousy is sneaky. It can creep in over someone’s appearance, success, relationships, or lifestyle. It’s a happiness stealer! When I feel it start to rise up, I try to catch it quickly and say, “Nope. Not today.” Comparison steals joy. Choosing gratitude for all I have and genuinely cheering for others, brings joy right back.

When I practice this important do-not-do list, something shifts. My mind is quieter. My heart feels steadier. I’m less tangled up in things that don’t really matter.

Everyday happiness isn’t about adding more to your life. Sometimes it’s about gently refusing the habits that weigh you down.  Now that feels like something worth checking off the list.

Linda Ward, Courage Daily Life Coaching

Linda is an author and owner of Courage Daily Life Coaching. Her specialty is helping you rediscover everyday happiness and lead a satisfying life. If you feel thrown off balance by life challenges, reach out to Linda using this link.

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